Got this 84 CJ7 a few months ago want some help on a small (I hope it is a small problem)

want some help on a small problem (I hope it is a small problem)
Has a small crack (circled in red) can that be welded or what? It stopped leaking for awhile but has started again. It is a real small leak.

more of the motor anything else you see that needs to be addressed?

Plans are for this to be a run around vehicle (I have another) and moderate off-roader.

How long is the crack? Depending on the size, I might be tempted to drill and tap it for a pipe plug... or maybe an expansion plug. If it's too long, then grind a "V" along it and have it brazed or fill with JB Weld. Then, I'd start looking for another engine...

'80 CJ5 w/AMC360, T176, D44 w/Detroit 4.56, RE 4" YJ lift and 35s..

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How long is the crack? Depending on the size, I might be tempted to drill and tap it for a pipe plug... or maybe an expansion plug. If it's too long, then grind a "V" along it and have it brazed or fill with JB Weld. Then, I'd start looking for another engine...

First, be sure that is a crack and not a seeping head gasket. The only way to really "repair" it is to drill and pin it. Starting at one end of the crack, you will need to drill then brass screw it. Cut the screw off flush with the block. Continue drilling overlaping holes and adding screws till you hit clean metal(no more crack). You might check with your local machine shop. There used to be kits available to do this.

welding is possible but most folks want the block to be striped before they will work on it - usually requires pining each end of the crack and then tig welding with cast iron rod. the reason to look for a new engine is because cracks tend to grow, not get smaller. Not claiming Brazing will not work but in my opinion Brazing will most likely crack as it is very brittle and does not expand at the same rate as the block (think flexing beer can). I have attempted on several occasions to braze holes (cracks) closed on old water heaters to use them as a class project for solar energy - have never yet successfully sealed one of them god forsaken holes (but I am not a certified welder - just a shop teacher) - have seen plenty of cracked blocks successfully welded by pinning and tig welding..

Jib weld will do in the short term but it will eventually fail and that would rot if it happened back in the woods or far from help - clean the area real good first and do not be surprised if the hole gets big when ya clean it out

I'd say from the state of the underneath, you've got an oil leak to have a look at to.

Mine had a crack in almost exactly the same place, which the shop didn't find until they'd nearly finished rebuilding the motor , they didn't even entertain trying to fix it as they said it would only get worse the longer they left it, so as Besrk said start looking for a new block